Denton Reflections

How did your thinking change?
“I felt much more optimistic about the possibility of making the ‘cultural shifts’ after doing the ATLAS protocol. The text prompted a string of amens but was daunting in the depth & breadth of what would need to change in order to achieve them. The ATLAS protocol offered a window on how to begin—a very doable task.”
“I’m glad I came ~ my stress level made me arrive thinking I had to be here but I enjoyed the work we did and I was able to learn new things to help me in our upcoming meetings.”
“At this moment, I’m wishing I had video-taped myself leading a meeting to share for feedback. I asked [my colleague] to provide feedback after that particular meeting, but I’m thinking how valuable feedback from others would be, also.
My thinking has expanded to realize that protocols (CFG work) can be used on any practice (ie. budgets, how to handle particular situations, etc.)”
“I really received an affirmation about whether or not I am on the right track when we read the cultural shifts piece on professional learning communities.”
“I came in carrying all the projects I was working on and feeling a bit overwhelmed. During the session I was able to reflect on the tools at my disposal and know I can facilitate the changes for kids.”
“Protocols are appropriate and beneficial to groups of 2 as well as groups of 20.
Time for my own professional development has been limited this year (ie emptying bucket)
Reflection is crucial to meaningful change. (consistent)”

What are your next steps?
“A. use the ATLAS at least once before end of year w/ as many grade level teams as possible (vertical teams next year)
B. consider how to extend campus level SD topic into grade level application next year.”
“My next steps are to make an application for 4 summer CFG spots for my campus and get more people trained.”
“Next steps. . .
1. Plan CFG meetings monthly with interested people.
2. Train additional staff in order to facilitate ‘coffee talk’ groups that could meet monthly to discuss articles and/or student work/teacher work.”
“I will move forward in firmly instilling into the minds of our leaders of leaders and teacher leaders that our primary focus as a campus should evolve around student learning. I plan to include CFG protocols to help teach and emphasize the cultural shift.”
“I want to establish dates for the district CFG, secure funding, and plan for implementation.”
“Choose my own summer reading & try to find a partner to relate with.
Journal on at least a weekly basis—to begin.
Implement protocols at each IB grade level training.”